2016 – looking back at an amazing year for Julie’s Cake in a Box!!

As the year draws to a close, I thought I would look back at some of the fun challenges and my favourite cakes throughout 2016.

So, this time last year saw me attempt my first modelled figure with an internal armature structure. Following Rhu Strand’s tutorial on Paul Bradford’s Sugarcraft school, I was guided through the process of turning this:

into this:

I then went on to experiment with my own designs, creating ‘Dobby’ and the bride from ‘Kill Bill’.

These figures gave me the confidence to compete at Cake International later in the year, which turned out to be one of the most amazing experiences! Getting a Silver Award for my first ever entry at Cake International, Birmingham in November surpassed all my wildest dreams! My BFG currently takes pride of place in my local library in Beverley, East Yorkshire.

I was also lucky enough to be chosen to participate in the Paul Bradford Sugarcraft School Xmas Display Table at Cake International. The brief was to create your own version of a Paul Bradford Christmas tutorial cake, so I made a ‘pimped up’ Santa Face!

A reoccurring theme of the year, with regards to customer cakes, was definitely messy and girly! Lots of messy bedrooms (both girls and boys) and lots of make up themed cakes! I have to say, these are amongst my favourite requests, as I love making all the fiddly bits and bobs…..obviously having 3 teenage children for inspiration (one of which is a girl) does have its advantages x

Sports themed cakes also played a big part in 2016’s cake orders:

Another new challenge for me over the summer of 2016, was becoming a new member of the Katy Sue Design Team. An absolutely honour to be chosen and lots of new challenges and opportunities, which will be continuing into 2017! Some of my favourite designs so far:

It was fantastic to see my ‘Alice In Wonderland’ cake featured in the new Cake International Magazine!

Another favourite moment, was creating this beautiful 5 tier wedding cake with handmade cascading sugar roses. One of my larger cakes of the year!

My last challenge of the year was being involved in the CPC Collaborations 15th Anniversary of Shrek celebration. Unfortunately, a few artists had to drop out, but the 6 of us who remained, revealed the results on 30th December. This was totally out of my comfort zone, never having attempted a bust cake before, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am looking forward to more collaborations next year!

Wow! Looking back, it has been an amazing year. I have learnt so much and made so many fantastic friends along the way.

Here’s to another year of fun, friendship and opportunities to share!

Thanks to everyone who has supported me throughout my adventure so far.